FA to whack Hazard with bigger ban

It is alleged Hazard’s behaviour in relation to a Swansea ballboy constituted violent conduct whereby the standard punishment that would otherwise apply was clearly insufficient.

An FA statement

The prospect of an extended suspension loomed yesterday after the FA decided an automatic three-game suspension was inadequate for the seriousness of the offence.

Hazard has been charged by the FA for kicking out at Charlie Morgan, 17, as the Blues crashed out of the Capital One Cup at Swansea on Wednesday.

He starts his ban after being sent off for violent conduct when the FA Cup holders travel to Brentford tomorrow.

But the FA yesterday deemed that “insufficient” punishment, and a three-man commission will rule next week on whether to increase it.

It is understood football’s ruling body is expecting the ban to be increased by two matches.

If Chelsea progress at Griffin Park, a five-game rap would see Hazard also miss trips to Reading and Newcastle, the fi fth round of the FA Cup, and Wigan at home, returning in time for the visit to champions Manchester City.

But the FA are concerned at the image sent out by Hazard’s actions and yesterday released a statement saying: “It is alleged Hazard’s behaviour in relation to a Swansea ballboy constituted violent conduct whereby the standard punishment that would otherwise apply was clearly insufficient.